Definition: Lover and friend hast thou put far from me, [and] mine acquaintance into darkness.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 88:18. It's a really beautiful and poignant verse about feeling distant and lost. Here’s a simple explanation: The Core Idea: The verse expresses deep sadness and a sense of being abandoned by someone who has been kind to you – but now they’re not treating you with the same care or affection. Let's unpack it word-by-word (a little): “Lover and friend hast thou put far from me…” - This means the person who is distancing themselves from you has been a loving and supportive presence in your life. They’ve offered comfort, kindness, and companionship. “…and mine acquaintance into darkness.” – This is the crucial part. "Acquaintance" refers to a relationship – a friendship, a bond, a connection. “Into darkness” means being lost, isolated, and without guidance or light. It suggests that this person has been leading you astray, not in a malicious way, but in a way that leaves you feeling confused and uncertain about your path. Overall Meaning: The verse conveys a strong sense of disappointment, loneliness, and perhaps even grief. The speaker feels like they’ve been abandoned by someone who once offered them support and connection, now leaving them feeling lost and without direction. It's a cry for help – a plea for the person to remember or refocus their care and affection towards you. Think of it this way: It’s like when you reach out to someone who seems to be withdrawing from you. You feel a little hurt, a little sad, and worried that they might be pulling away. It's often interpreted as a call for forgiveness or reconciliation. The speaker is asking for the person to remember their true value – their affection and care – and to turn back towards them. Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Psalm 88? Discuss the context of this verse in more detail (like when it was written)? Offer a different interpretation of the meaning?